Clos Saint Jean La Combe des Fous Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020 – Grenache from “The Hill of Fools”

La Combe des Fous – directly translated “The Hill of Fools” – is one of the most legendary cuvées from Clos Saint Jean in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The name refers to Edmond Tacussel, great-great-grandfather of Pascal and Vincent, who in 1905 planted Grenache on the southernmost and outermost part of Le Crau. An area that for centuries was considered barren and infertile. Many believed that the vines would never survive. Today, these ancient Grenache vines are at the heart of one of the appellation’s most iconic wines.

The 2020 vintage is a powerful and balanced version where concentration and elegance go hand in hand. Only the best vintages are produced – and the 2020 confirms once again why this cuvée has achieved cult status among collectors and Rhône lovers.

Grapes and vinification

La Combe des Fous is dominated by old Grenache vines from Le Crau, supplemented by small amounts of Syrah, Cinsault and Vaccarèse. Grenache forms the backbone with its warm fruit and silky texture, while the other grapes add spice, depth of color and complexity.

Maceration is long – up to 35 days – for maximum extraction and depth. Grenache is aged without the use of wood to preserve the pure fruit of the grape, while Syrah and Mourvèdre are aged in 1-2 year old oak barrels to add structure and finesse.

Tasting notes

Aroma: Intense and complex with dark cherries, ripe raspberries and crushed strawberries. Notes of garrigue, black pepper, licorice and warm Mediterranean herbs.

Flavor: Full-bodied and concentrated with a silky smooth texture. Layer upon layer of dark fruit, spice and a hint of cocoa. The Grenache fruit is pure and juicy, while the other grapes add depth and structure.

Finish: Long and persistent with mineral nerve, ripe tannins and an elegant, spicy finish.

The story of Clos Saint Jean

The history of Clos Saint Jean in Châteauneuf-du-Pape can be traced back to the early 1900s. Since 1910, the family has been producing, bottling and selling its own wines since its founding in 1900. The big breakthrough came in 2003 when Robert Parker praised the wines to the skies – and since then the house has been among the most sought-after producers in the appellation.

Today, the property is managed by Pascal and Vincent, who have 44 hectares of vineyards, of which 1 hectare is dedicated to white Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The combination of old vines, low yields and uncompromising selection has made Clos Saint Jean a reference producer in the Southern Rhône.

• Product name: Clos Saint Jean La Combe des Fous
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape
• Vintage: 2020
• Grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Vaccarèse
• Type: Red wine
• Quantity: 75 cl
• Contains: Sulfites
• Alcohol: 15%alcohol